Ancient Indian philosophy is diverse, encompassing six major schools of thought: Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta. These schools explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics.
1. Nyaya: Focuses on logic and epistemology, aiming to attain valid knowledge through inference, comparison, and testimony.
2. Vaisheshika: Addresses metaphysics and atomistic theory, proposing that the universe is composed of distinct, indivisible particles.
3. Samkhya: Explores the nature of reality through dualism, positing the existence of two fundamental principles: Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter).
4. Yoga: Offers a practical path to spiritual realization through physical and mental discipline, emphasizing meditation and ethical living.
5. Mimamsa: Concerned with rituals and the proper interpretation of the Vedas, emphasizing the importance of dharma (duty) in individual and social life.
6. Vedanta: Investigates the nature of ultimate reality (Brahman) and the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the universal consciousness.
These philosophies share a common thread in seeking liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and recognize the significance of ethical conduct (dharma) in attaining spiritual goals. The concepts of karma (action and its consequences) and reincarnation are central to many of these schools.